Rabat, Morocco – In a showdown at the 2023 ISF World Schools Cup – Football, Uganda’s St Noa Girls School Zzana fought valiantly but suffered a devastating 1-4 penalty shootout defeat to China 2 in the semi-finals. The match took place at the auxiliary play-ground of Prince Moulay Abdallah stadium on Thursday, July 27, 2023.
Throughout normal time, both teams displayed incredible skill and determination, resulting in a deadlock with no goals scored. However, the fate of the game was to be decided in the penalty shootout. China 2’s players Sa Gao, Wang Chengxi, Li Sigi, and captain Wang Dangtong showcased nerves of steel, converting their penalties flawlessly. On the other hand, St Noa Girls’ Zzana managed to find the back of the net only once, thanks to Miriam Ayoo. Unfortunately, skipper Sarah Babirye and Nancy Mandera missed their respective kicks, leading to the heartbreaking loss for the Ugandan team.
Despite the disappointment, St Noa Girls Zzana is determined to bounce back and has shifted its focus to securing the bronze medal. Coach Jimmy Mukubya revealed that the team’s main objective now is to help the players recover from the emotional setback and regain their energy and vigor in preparation for the third-place play-off match against Germany. Germany suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to China 1 in the other semi-final duel.
Meanwhile, the boys’ classification matches also saw some intense competition. Amus College School emerged victorious against China 2 with a 2-1 scoreline, thanks to a goal by Genesis Ocen Odiya. Kibuli S.S. registered their first win of the championship, triumphing over Bulgaria with a convincing 2-0 win at the FUS Sports Complex. Imran Asiimwe and Sharif Ssebunya were the goal scorers for Kibuli S.S., with all goals coming in the second half.
As the excitement continues to build, fans can look forward to the final classification matches scheduled for Friday, July 28, 2023. The boys’ final will feature France and Morocco 2, both teams securing their spots after victories against Croatia (3-2) and Saudi Arabia 2 (2-1), respectively. Croatia and Saudi Arabia will face off in the boys’ bronze medal match, promising yet another captivating clash.
With the determination and talent displayed by all the teams, the stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion to the 14th ISF World Schools Cup – Football. As the remaining matches unfold, football enthusiasts around the world eagerly await to see which teams will emerge as champions and take home the coveted trophies.
